These downloadable diagrams accompany The Art and Science of Perspective book series. They provide visual summaries of Perspective Category Theory, the functions and processes of perspective, projection systems, instrument perspective, perspective phenomena, and the wider taxonomy of visual and optical perspective.
Select a diagram to view it at full size or download the PDF.
Categories of Perspective
An overview of the principal categories and relationships within Perspective Category Theory.
Functions of Perspective
A systematic comparison of viewing, matching and representing functions across the imaging and projecting classes.
Perspective Imaging Process
An ontology of the optical imaging process, linking perspective targets, systems, methods, image forms, phenomena and appearance facets.
Instrument Perspective A
Looking, capturing and projecting/displaying: instruments and techniques used to observe, record and show visual reality.
Instrument Perspective B
Representing, measuring/modelling and simulating: instruments and systems used to construct, analyse and create visual appearances.
Perspective Projection Types
A classification of central, cylindrical, spherical, curvilinear and linear projection systems and their frameworks.
Parallel Projection Types
A visual classification of oblique, orthographic, axonometric and multi-view parallel projection systems.
Perspective Phenomena
A comprehensive map of extrinsic, intrinsic and environmental factors involved in perspective phenomena and visual perception.
Perspective Phenomena — Extrinsic Factors
A detailed analysis of spatial, formal, optical and atmospheric factors that transform the appearance of objects and scenes.
Taxonomy of Perspective
A wide-ranging visual taxonomy linking perspective classes, categories, processes, image forms, optical facets and perspective phenomena.
A conceptual diagram showing how spatial reality, perspective process, method, system, image and perspective phenomena relate within an optical perspective framework.
Applications of perspective organised by discipline and by five principal goals: View, Match, Represent, Illusion and Immersion.
This infographic presents 1,000 selected Dictionary index entries whose names explicitly contain the word “perspective.” It therefore represents a substantial selection rather than the complete taxonomy.
Whether new to perspective or highly experienced, visitors can extend their knowledge and professional capabilities. Whatever practical perspective problem they face—or new visual solution they seek—the PRC provides overlooked principles, methods and phenomena applicable across visual practice. Many of these ideas are rarely brought together elsewhere; others derive from original theories, research and classifications developed by Alan S. Radley.
Perspective Category Theory: Optical Perspective Taxonomy — Poster A (Archival 2024 Edition — A0 Size)
This large-format poster brings together perspective categories, projection systems, processes, phenomena, instruments, functions and hundreds of named perspective types. Open or download the PDF to examine the complete detail.
Copyright and permitted use
Copyright © Alan Stuart Radley. All rights reserved. These diagrams may be downloaded for personal study and educational reference. Reproduction, republication, alteration or commercial use requires written permission from the copyright holder.
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